Beckford Backing Everton For Europe Under Moyes
Former Everton striker Jermaine Beckford believes his old club are capable of securing European football this season, crediting David Moyes with reshaping both performances and expectations at Goodison Park.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with Gambling.com, Beckford - who joined Everton from Leeds United in 2010 and scored eight Premier League goals during his time with the Toffees - said he has been impressed by the structure and consistency now evident in the side, a clear shift from recent seasons dominated by relegation concerns.
"I’ve been very impressed with Everton this season, and they most definitely can make European football. Defensively, David Moyes has always been strong at setting up his teams, and this season has been no different.
"Going to the new stadium, sometimes it cannot be so successful, but Everton can be pleased with their return so far."
Defensive Solidity Setting The Standard
Everton’s improvement has been built on a far more organised defensive approach, something that has long been associated with Moyes’ teams.
That structure has allowed them to stay competitive in difficult matches and build consistency across the season.
Beckford believes experienced players have been key to that progress.
"On the pitch, with Jordan Pickford and James Tarkowski, you have experienced players in the Premier League, and this has been shown by their performances so far this season.
"With a European spot in sight, they can be the ones who continue to put in big games to push Everton onwards."
That combination of organisation and leadership has given Everton a reliable platform to build from, turning them into a much tougher side to break down.
It also provides the consistency required over a full campaign to remain competitive in the race for European qualification.
Attacking Threat Starting To Emerge
While the defensive side has been the foundation, Everton have also shown signs of improvement going forward, with Moyes getting more out of his attacking options in recent weeks.
"Attacking-wise, Barry and Beto are ones which have really taken my eye over the last few weeks. As David Moyes looks to get more goals from his team, both are working really well for the team.
"With back-to-back wins over Newcastle and Burnley, David Moyes will be very happy with this."
That improved attacking output has added balance to the side, making Everton more than just a defensively solid unit and giving them the tools to sustain a push up the table.
If that momentum continues, it will significantly strengthen their chances of holding on to a European place.
Moyes Has Changed The Direction Of The Club
The biggest shift, however, has been in mindset. Everton are no longer looking over their shoulder - they are now aiming higher.
"What can you say about David Moyes that hasn’t already been said? He has turned Everton around, and now, instead of a relegation battle, which is what the fans have been used to for many years, they can now look forward to pushing for a European place.
"Huge credit to David and his team for the transformation in the way Everton are performing on the pitch, where there hasn’t been a dramatic change in players.
"With their remaining games including some of the teams struggling, there is no reason why Everton can’t maintain their position.
"Depending on the number of European places, to see Everton back in Europe would be brilliant for the club and the fans."
With momentum building and confidence growing, Everton’s push for Europe now looks like a realistic target rather than an outside ambition.
Maintaining that level of performance through the final stretch will be key to turning that ambition into success.
